LCDA Approves Key Initiatives Supporting Water Quality, Science, and Community Education

Hinesville, GA - As analysis continues to identify the best path toward a modern sewer system for Liberty County, the LCDA Board approved new initiatives to gather scientific data to support informed decisions. At its June 22 meeting, the Board discussed committing additional resources to three major initiatives that will expand environmental monitoring, increase transparency, and enhance public education. These efforts are part of LCDA's ongoing response to community input.

The Board voted to support ongoing communication with a trusted environmental nonprofit to establish baseline water quality data in the Laurel View and North Newport Rivers to document existing conditions. The data will support planning, ensure transparency, and provide a scientific foundation for decisions. The Authority hopes to announce an agreement before the end of July.

In the meantime, an agreement with Water Environment Consultants (WEC) will be immediately executed to conduct salinity studies in both rivers. This work will provide data on how freshwater and saltwater interact at potential discharge locations, helping inform engineering design, environmental evaluation, and regulatory review.

Another initiative offers local citizens the opportunity to learn from experts about local water resources, how coastal water systems work, and why they are important to public health, the environment, and quality of life. The Water Academy Workshop Series and Water Stewards Certification Program for Liberty County residents was approved by the LCDA Board in partnership with the Georgia Southern University Institute for Water and Health. This four-week program can provide residents, community leaders, educators, and decision-makers with a clear, science-based understanding of coastal water systems.

The program will be hosted on Saturday mornings in the Midway area. Dates will be announced in early July. Weekly two-hour workshops will combine instruction and hands-on learning as participants explore how water moves through Liberty County's coast, and examine how water quality affects recreation, seafood safety, and health. Practical steps will be shared on how to protect water resources at home through proper septic system and well management. The final session will focus on community engagement and action.

A minimum of 25 participants is required, and those who complete the program will receive a state-recognized Adopt-A-Stream certification along with a Water Academy completion certificate. The program is to build a network of informed residents who can contribute to thoughtful, science-based conversations about water resources and environmental stewardship.

"These initiatives reflect our commitment to transparency, sound science, and community involvement," said LCDA Board Chairman, State Rep. Al Williams. "We want to make sure our community has access to credible information, to understand the science behind the decisions we will be making, and to have meaningful opportunities to be part of the process."

Together, these efforts represent a comprehensive approach to planning for Liberty County's future grounded in data, strengthened by partnerships, and supported by an informed and engaged community.

For more information and program updates, visit https://www.cleanwaterbrightfuture.com.